Gandhi said that our words are as important as our actions. Sometimes words fail us. Such is the case with the death of my friend, the beloved Senator Kennedy. Mere words can't begin to encompass the greatness of this man. For several hours I have searched for the right collection of words to describe the humanity of Senator Kennedy who is the greatest United States Senator in our nation's history.

I know, on this very sad day, heaven is richer and we are poorer.

Over the years, I have been honored to have been viewed as a friend and ally of this remarkable man. As a result, I have been able to witness first hand his passionate and endless battle for equality. The LGBT community has had no greater friend in the United States Congress than Senator Kennedy. For over three decades Senator Kennedy has fought for the rights of LGBT citizens around the world. When no one heard our cries in the night, in the early years of the HIV/AIDS crisis, one Senator rose from his chair and gave voice to our struggle and pain - Senator Edward Kennedy. He was often the only one to stand by our side in those dark days.

My first .interaction with Senator Kennedy was in 1969 (I was 23 years old). Doris Kearns Goodwin had invited me to his home in Virginia, to speak with him about the War in Vietnam and the passion of American youth against it. My first impression was the huge smile, a rolling laugh and a legend that immediately made me feel at home and like a long lost friend. There were only a few of us there that night and I was struck how carefully he listened as we spoke of our hatred of the War. This articulate man, whose life was filled with some of the nation's greatest minds, made me feel intelligent and of value. I never forgot his kindness.

That meeting began 40 years of working together for peace and against war, for LGBT rights and against hate, to find a cure for HIV/AIDS and against discrimination for those with HIV/AIDS. Those years were filled with legislative maneuvering and passionate speeches for equality.

There is not room in this piece to list the endless moments when Senator Kennedy fought for the LGBT community and for people with HIV/AIDS. He was the first Presidential candidate to make an appearance at an LGBT event. With his good friend Jim Foster and Steven Smith, he attended a fundraising event for his Presidential campaign at the home of Clyde Cairns in Los Angeles When others attempted to close the event to the press, Teddy immediately lifted the ropes and invited them to join the party. He was not a fair weather friend to our community. He embraced us and we embraced him.

In the early 1980's, as the AIDS epidemic began, nearly every elected official ran from us, scared of the political ramifications of the epidemic. Teddy ran toward us and for the next decades, over and over again, he fought against hate filled amendments (mostly from Senator Jesse Helms) designed to punish people with HIV/AIDS. He defeated most of them. At the same time, he led the fight to find a cure. The Senator fought to include us in the American with Disabilities Act, he was the lead sponsor of the Ryan White Legislation, he made HIV/AIDS medicines available to everyone by creating the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). He never stopped fighting for people with HIV/AIDS.

For LGBT citizens, he has been our champion for the last thirty years. He was the first Senator to be for Marriage Equality. He was among the first Senators to sponsor ENDA (Employment Non-Discrimination Act). In the early 1980's, at my invitation and with the assistance of Bob Shrum, Senator Kennedy spoke at a MECLA Black Tie fundraising dinner in Los Angeles. MECLA was the first LGBT PAC in history. The place was packed and the entire room was in awe that Senator Kennedy would break bread with us when most politicians wouldn't accept our money or return our calls. The list of his accomplishments for our community is endless and impossible to encapsulate in one piece. Just know that in our darkest moments, he gave us light.

Never will the LGBT community have a greater friend or more important person on our long journey to freedom. When our history is written for future generations, the name Senator Edward Kennedy will be on almost every page.

For me personally, I will never forget his jokes, his laughter, his love of music and his joy. When I visited Hyannis Port one Fourth of July, he took Michael Fleming and I to three chairs along the coast and we sat and discussed how he could do more to help us. He shared stories about loss and stories that made me laugh. He would then become very serious about the strategy of achieving victory for our equality. It will remain for me one of the special moments of my life.

Nor can I forget the night at his home in Washington, DC, in 2004, when he and his extraordinarily beautiful and gracious wife Vicki, hosted an event for the LGBT community to raise money to take back the Senate from the Republicans. Teddy had called and asked me to organize the event and no one ever said no to Teddy. It was an unforgettable evening. Vicki greeted every guest at the door with welcoming graciousness and ushered us into their home. The evening was a historic one for the community, with numerous Senators, great speeches and the music of jazz legend sax player Dave Koz. Kennedy, who loved music and loved to gather around a piano and sing old Irish songs, fell in love with the sax playing of Dave Koz. Vicki took me aside during the event and asked if I could stay afterwards with Dave and his group.

As the guests left, we sat for over an hour in his living room laughing,telling stories and Dave playing. The Senator took Dave and his musicians upstairs to walk them through the history of his family and, then much to Dave's surprise, insisted that they call Dave's mother! Vicki and I stayed downstairs and traded gossip from the evening and talked hardcore politics. Although known for her graciousness, beauty and being an incredible partner to Teddy, Vicki Kennedy has one of the finest political minds of any individual in Washington, DC. I have grown to love, respect and honor her over the last years. Most importantly, she gave the Senator great love, joy and happiness in his last years. She was a gift to a life that had seen too much tragedy.

Finally, in the many moments that I remember with Teddy and his family, none comes closer than the birthday party for Bob Shrum given by his wife, Marylouise Oates. The two have been close friends, if not 'family' to the Kennedys over the years. In a beautiful evening overlooking the Bay in Sagamore Beach, he insisted we not stop singing that evening and there was toast after toast to his friend Bob and even more stories that had us in hysterical laughter. I remember turning to a young man who had never had exposure to the Kennedys until that night, and said to him, "Don't forget this moment, there will never be another like it".

Senator Kennedy has now passed into the world of legends. Stories will be told about him for generations to come. Teddy, was a kind, loving man who overcame tragedy to rise to a life of joy, love and honor. There was never one like him before and there will never be another like him after.

All future leaders in the Senate will be judged by the standards he created by his greatness. I will greatly miss him. My love and sympathy goes to Vicki and the family. I weep on this dark day.

Pictures are from LGBT event a Senator and Ms. Kennedy's home in Washington

Sometimes, words are too many; at other times, too few. Words speak of 'better places,' 'the end of suffering,' 'resting,' and all those places, which only the joy of true innocence may conceive. But, for the old lion and those of us who grew with him, we can only offer the silent purity of tears.

Though not counted among his personal friends, I certainly was his admirer. He was in the Senate before I was born. His primary challenge to Jimmy Carter was the first campaign on which I worked for an election in which I could actually vote. Our paths crossed often. But two personal occasions stand out in my mind: One sultry night in Georgetown as we walked by each other and he was lost in his own thoughts, seemingly carrying the weight of the word, so I didn't dare to jar him out of it; and an afternoon in the lobby of the Beverly Hilton when he strode in for a meeting and waved away the fuss-makers so he could chat with the workers for a minute. I feel his passing immensely.

"A glooming peace this morning with it brings. The sun for sorrow will not show its head."

Sometimes realization comes on unexpected paws. At some point, sometime in 1977, as I recall, the politically conservative, devoutly Catholic, Air Force career parents of Leonard Matlovich were still experiencing a kind of PTSD...Post Your Gay Son Being on the Cover of Time Magazine Stress Disorder. And not only had his father first discovered his son was gay by reading it in the newspaper, but that he was suing the Air Force.

Now both loved their son without question, but three plus+ decades ago having a gay revolutionary in your family was a bit disconcerting to most parents.

But then Leonard took them to a gay rights event where they met Ted Kennedy who, despite their political differences, they understood to be "the real thing" [and I think Catholics of all kinds were proud of the family that had broken the White House ceiling].

Leonard said that he could tell they instantly looked at him and his role in the struggle for gay equality with new eyes and understanding.

Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy.

For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts.

I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited as President from his encouragement and wisdom.

An important chapter in our history has come to an end. Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time.

And the Kennedy family has lost their patriarch, a tower of strength and support through good times and bad.

Our hearts and prayers go out to them today--to his wonderful wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family.

Kennedy Family statement:

We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it's hard to imagine any of them without him.
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Senator John Kerry:

No words can ever do justice to this irrepressible, larger than life presence who was simply the best -- the best senator, the best advocate you could ever hope for, the best colleague and the best person to stand by your side in the toughest of times.

Senator Chris Dodd

"I'm not sure America has ever had a greater Senator, but I know for certain that no one has had a greater friend than I and so many others did in Ted Kennedy.

"I will always remember Teddy as the ultimate example for all of us who seek to serve, a hero for those Americans in the shadow of life who so desperately needed one.

"He worked tirelessly to lift Americans out of poverty, advance the cause of civil rights, and provide opportunity to all. He fought to the very end for the cause of his life - ensuring that all Americans have the health care they need.

"The commitment to build a stronger and fairer America, a more perfect union, was deeply ingrained in the fiber of who he was, and what he believed in, and why he served.

"That's why he stands among the most respected Senators in history. But it was his sympathetic ear, his razor wit, and his booming, raucous laugh that made him among the most beloved.

"Whatever tragedy befell Teddy's family, he would always be there for them. Whatever tragedy befell the family of one of his friends, he would always be there for us. And in this moment of profound grief, our hearts are with his wonderful wife Vicki, his fantastic kids Ted Jr., Patrick, Kara, Curran, and Caroline, his grandchildren, and the wide and wonderful extended family for whom he was always a safe harbor.

"I will miss him every day I serve, and every day I live."

Former President Jimmy Carter

Sen. Kennedy was a passionate voice for the citizens of Massachusetts and an unwavering advocate for the millions of less fortunate in our country. The courage and dignity he exhibited in his fight with cancer was surpassed only by his lifelong commitment and service to his country.
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair:

Senator Kennedy was a figure who inspired admiration, respect and devotion not just in America but around the world. He was a true public servant committed to the values of fairness, justice and opportunity.
Former President George H.W. Bush:

While we didn't see eye-to-eye on many political issues through the years, I always respected his steadfast public service - so much so, in fact, that I invited him to my library in 2003 to receive the Bush Award for Excellence in Public Service. Ted Kennedy was a seminal figure in the United States Senate - a leader who answered the call to duty for some 47 years, and whose death closes a remarkable chapter in that body's history.
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown:

Senator Edward Kennedy will be mourned not just in America but in every continent. He is admired around the world as the Senator of Senators. He led the world in championing children's education and health care, and believed that every single child should have the chance to realise their potential to the full.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu:

Kennedy has been a friend for 30 years, a great American patriot, a great champion of a better world, a great friend of Israel. He will be sorely missed.
Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen:

In good days and bad, Ted Kennedy worked valiantly for the cause of peace on this island.... Today, America has lost a great and respected statesman and Ireland has lost a long-standing and true friend.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger:

Maria and I are immensely saddened by the passing of Uncle Teddy. He was known to the world as the Lion of the Senate, a champion of social justice, and a political icon.
Most importantly, he was the rock of our family: a loving husband, father, brother and uncle. He was a man of great faith and character.

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi:

Today, with the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, the American people have lost a great patriot, and the Kennedy family has lost a beloved patriarch. Over a lifetime of leadership, Senator Kennedy's statesmanship and political prowess produced a wealth of accomplishment that has improved opportunity for every American.
Senator Kennedy had a grand vision for America, and an unparalleled ability to effect change. Rooted in his deep patriotism, his abiding faith, and his deep concern for the least among us, no one has done more than Senator Kennedy to educate our children, care for our seniors, and ensure equality for all Americans.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid:

Because of Ted Kennedy, more young children could afford to become healthy. More young adults could afford to become students. More of our oldest citizens and our poorest citizens could get the care they need to live longer, fuller lives. More minorities, women and immigrants could realize the rights our founding documents promised them. And more Americans could be proud of their country.
Former First Lady Nancy Reagan:

I was terribly saddened to hear of the death of Ted Kennedy tonight.
Given our political differences, people are sometimes surprised by how close Ronnie and I have been to the Kennedy family. But Ronnie and Ted could always find common ground, and they had great respect for one another. In recent years, Ted and I found our common ground in stem cell research, and I considered him an ally and a dear friend. I will miss him.

My heart goes out to Vicki and the entire Kennedy family.

Senator Orrin Hatch:

Many have come before, and many will come after, but Ted Kennedy's name will always be remembered as someone who lived and breathed the United States Senate and the work completed within its chamber. When I first came to the United States Senate I was filled with conservative fire in my belly and an itch to take on any and everyone who stood in my way, including Ted Kennedy. As I began working within the confines of my office I soon found out that while we almost always disagreed on most issues, once in a while we could actually get together and find the common ground, which is essential in passing legislation.
Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin:

I would like to extend our sympathies to the Kennedy family as we hear word about the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy. He believed in our country and fought passionately for his convictions.
Read more from Huffington Post bloggers:
Arianna Huffington: Ted Kennedy and the Missing National Conversation
"Something died in America," said civil rights leader Rep. John Lewis of Robert F. Kennedy's untimely death. Watching the snippets of Ted Kennedy's speeches playing again and again on cable reminds us of something else that has died in America: the national conversation about what the Bible calls "the least among us." It's been missing for a while. Kennedy's passing reminds us how much we need to revive it -- and make it central to the political debate. READ MORE Watch: Arianna Discusses Ted Kennedy's Legacy And His Impact On Health Care Reform On The Ed Show
Sen. Robert Byrd: Ted Kennedy, My Friend and Colleague
As a tribute to his commitment to his ideals, let us stop the shouting and name-calling and have a civilized debate on health care reform which I hope, when legislation has been signed into law, will bear his name for his commitment to insuring the health of every American.
Sen. Harry Reid: Our Lost Patriarch
It was the thrill of my lifetime to work with Ted Kennedy. He was a friend, the model of public service and an American icon.
Robert Creamer: Greatest Tribute to Kennedy: Pass Health Care for All
It would be fitting if Sen. Kennedy's passing itself served to refocus the health care debate on the moral principle that lies at its center.
Christine Pelosi: Kennedy: Mourning The Loss of an Icon
Like millions of Americans across the country mourning the death of Senator Ted Kennedy with his family and friends, I feel the loss of an icon and can't imagine American public life without him.
William Bradley: Camelot Ends, Again: The Passing of Senator Ted Kennedy
Though a most imperfect man, Ted Kennedy made his choice over a life of ease, and America is much the better for it.
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- MassM22 permalink
I owe my life as it is today to Senator Kennedy. He did not save it. He made it possible for me to be who I am today.

I am a gay man. Through his understanding of what is right and what is wrong, what should be and what shouldn't be, he developed policies that led to greater understanding and acceptance of homosexuality and made it possible for me to be an openly gay state trooper.

Through his understanding that a smarter workforce can excel and make this country great, he helped fund grants and scholarships that made my Bachelors of Science degree in Plastics Engineering.

Through his acceptance of other cultures, he strived to reform immigration - a system very broken in this country.

The Rush Limbaugh's and Sean Hannity's of the world hated him for his embrace of civil rights and other liberal views but no matter where you stand idiologically, you cannot deny that he was instrumental in making Massachusetts and it's Universities some of the best in the world.

I am a gay man. Through his understanding of what is right and what is wrong, what should be and what shouldn't be, he developed policies that led to greater understanding and acceptance of homosexuality and made it possible for me to be an openly gay state trooper.

Through his understanding that a smarter workforce can excel and make this country great, he helped fund grants and scholarships that made my Bachelors of Science degree in Plastics Engineering.

Through his acceptance of other cultures, he strived to reform immigration - a system very broken in this country.

The Rush Limbaugh's and Sean Hannity's of the world hated him for his embrace of civil rights and other liberal views but no matter where you stand idiologically, you cannot deny that he was instrumental in making Massachusetts and it's Universities some of the best in the world.